Report says Neuheisel to leave CU

BOULDER, Colo. (AP) - Rick Neuheisel, who led Colorado to three bowl wins in four seasons, is leaving the school to coach the University of Washington, The Associated Press learned Saturday night.

A source close to Neuheisel, who asked not to be identified, told the AP that Neuheisel would replace Jim Lambright, fired by Washington after its first non-winning season in 22 years.

Colorado spokesman Dave Plati said a news conference was planned for Saturday night. Washington officials also said there would be an announcement.

Washington offered Neuheisel a seven-year deal that will make him among the highest-paid coaches in college football, KCNC-TV in Denver reported. The station said he will make approximately $1.5 million a year.

Neuheisel was 33-14 in four years with the Buffs. Colorado was 8-4 last season and beat No. 21 Oregon 51-43 in the Aloha Bowl.

Right after the Aloha Bowl, as part of a doubleheader, Washington lost to Air Force 45-25 in the Oahu Bowl. Lambright was fired shortly after that loss left the Huskies 6-6.

Former Texas coach John Mackovic removed himself from the running for the Washington job on Friday. Among the other top candidates were Toledo's Gary Pinkel and Idaho's Chris Tormey, both former Washington assistants.